EP2348638B1 - Capacitive contact and/or proximity switch - Google Patents

Capacitive contact and/or proximity switch Download PDF

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Publication number
EP2348638B1
EP2348638B1 EP11000470.2A EP11000470A EP2348638B1 EP 2348638 B1 EP2348638 B1 EP 2348638B1 EP 11000470 A EP11000470 A EP 11000470A EP 2348638 B1 EP2348638 B1 EP 2348638B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
sensor element
sensor
touch
proximity switch
carrier plate
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP11000470.2A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP2348638A2 (en
EP2348638A3 (en
Inventor
Uwe Heimann
Dirk Golz
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Diehl AKO Stiftung and Co KG
Original Assignee
Diehl AKO Stiftung and Co KG
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Diehl AKO Stiftung and Co KG filed Critical Diehl AKO Stiftung and Co KG
Publication of EP2348638A2 publication Critical patent/EP2348638A2/en
Publication of EP2348638A3 publication Critical patent/EP2348638A3/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP2348638B1 publication Critical patent/EP2348638B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H03—ELECTRONIC CIRCUITRY
    • H03K—PULSE TECHNIQUE
    • H03K17/00—Electronic switching or gating, i.e. not by contact-making and –breaking
    • H03K17/94—Electronic switching or gating, i.e. not by contact-making and –breaking characterised by the way in which the control signals are generated
    • H03K17/945—Proximity switches
    • H03K17/955—Proximity switches using a capacitive detector
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H03—ELECTRONIC CIRCUITRY
    • H03K—PULSE TECHNIQUE
    • H03K17/00—Electronic switching or gating, i.e. not by contact-making and –breaking
    • H03K17/94—Electronic switching or gating, i.e. not by contact-making and –breaking characterised by the way in which the control signals are generated
    • H03K17/96—Touch switches
    • H03K17/962—Capacitive touch switches
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H03—ELECTRONIC CIRCUITRY
    • H03K—PULSE TECHNIQUE
    • H03K2217/00—Indexing scheme related to electronic switching or gating, i.e. not by contact-making or -breaking covered by H03K17/00
    • H03K2217/94—Indexing scheme related to electronic switching or gating, i.e. not by contact-making or -breaking covered by H03K17/00 characterised by the way in which the control signal is generated
    • H03K2217/96—Touch switches
    • H03K2217/9607—Capacitive touch switches
    • H03K2217/960755—Constructional details of capacitive touch and proximity switches
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H03—ELECTRONIC CIRCUITRY
    • H03K—PULSE TECHNIQUE
    • H03K2217/00—Indexing scheme related to electronic switching or gating, i.e. not by contact-making or -breaking covered by H03K17/00
    • H03K2217/94—Indexing scheme related to electronic switching or gating, i.e. not by contact-making or -breaking covered by H03K17/00 characterised by the way in which the control signal is generated
    • H03K2217/96—Touch switches
    • H03K2217/9607—Capacitive touch switches
    • H03K2217/960755—Constructional details of capacitive touch and proximity switches
    • H03K2217/96076—Constructional details of capacitive touch and proximity switches with spring electrode

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a capacitive touch and / or proximity switch according to the preamble of claim 1, an operating device with such a capacitive touch and / or proximity switch and a method for its preparation.
  • touch-sensitive push button or touch and / or proximity switches are often used by a simple touch or mere approach by For example, trigger a user to initiate a particular shift and / or change a device setting.
  • a capacitive sensor element made of an electrically conductive material together with, for example, a finger of the user via a acting as a dielectric cover plate of an electrically insulating material forms a capacity corresponding to the actuation of the Switch, ie the touch or non-contact of the capacitive sensor element associated touch pad of the cover plate is variable.
  • the change in the capacitance value of the capacitive sensor element has a corresponding effect on an output signal of the sensor circuit, which can be processed by an evaluation and evaluated to possibly interpret an operation of the capacitive touch and / or proximity switch.
  • the transmitter for the sensor circuit and the capacitive sensor element are mounted on a printed circuit board, which is arranged substantially parallel and at a distance behind the cover plate.
  • the sensor element consists of a sensor section or a sensor surface which is connected via an electrically conductive body in the form of a compression spring with an electrically conductive contact on the circuit board.
  • Such a touch and / or proximity switch, which is displaceable in the contact direction is also known from DE 10 2006 035 837 A1 known.
  • Another touch and / or proximity switch is from the US 7,525,062 B2 known.
  • This touch and / or proximity switch describes a sensor element made of conductive plastic fastened to a control panel and adapted to support a printed circuit board.
  • control panels For very small control panels, for example, only have space for a number fewer switching elements, there is not enough space for the circuit board with evaluation behind the cover then in these aforementioned constructions.
  • Such installation conditions exist for example in control panels, which are provided in the front of a door of a household appliance.
  • Such a flexible circuit board portion may be provided with a plurality of touch switches and display elements and disposed immediately behind the curved cover plate.
  • This flexible circuit board portion is further connected to a rigid circuit board, which may be equipped, for example, with a display and an evaluation and arranged in any orientation behind the cover plate.
  • the capacitive touch and / or proximity switch includes an electrically insulating cover plate defining a touch pad for a user; a carrier plate arranged on a side of the cover plate facing away from the user; an electrically conductive sensor element; and an evaluation, which is electrically conductive with connected to the sensor element, on.
  • the sensor element has a sensor section, which is arranged on the side facing away from the user of the cover corresponding to the touch panel and substantially parallel to the cover plate, and a contact portion for attaching the sensor element to the support plate, wherein the transmitter via the contact portion electrically conductive is connected to the sensor element, wherein it is provided that the sensor element is connected to the carrier plate and the carrier plate is arranged at an angle of about 30 degrees to about 90 degrees to the cover plate and the contact portion of the sensor element for aligning the sensor portion of the sensor element relative to the Support plate is formed at an angle of about 30 degrees to about 90 degrees.
  • the support plate is at an angle of about about 30 degrees to the cover plate, that is not arranged parallel thereto.
  • the (large) angled arrangement of the support plate relative to the cover plate is in a range of about 30 degrees to about 90 degrees, ie, a vertical arrangement of the support plate.
  • a sensible use of the touch and / or proximity switch according to the invention results in particular at angles from about 45 degrees or about 60 degrees.
  • the support plate in the propagation directions parallel to the cover plate requires less space. In this way, the touch and / or proximity switch even with controls with small Operating panels can be used, since the carrier plate can be arranged behind these small control panels.
  • the contact portion of the sensor element for aligning the sensor portion of the sensor element relative to the support plate is formed at an angle of about about 30 degrees.
  • the contact portion of the sensor element is designed so that it also allows an orientation of the sensor portion of the sensor element relative to the carrier plate at an angle of about about 30 degrees. This angle essentially corresponds to the angle between the cover plate and the carrier plate and the above remarks apply correspondingly.
  • This design of the contact portion of the sensor element creates a degree of freedom for the arrangement of the carrier plate in the non-parallel orientation described above relative to the cover plate.
  • the “carrier plate” may be, for example, a printed circuit board or a plastic plate.
  • the carrier plate may also be formed as a stable plate body or have only film thickness.
  • the “transmitter” is for processing and evaluating the output signals generated by the sensor circuit to detect actuation of the switch by touching / approaching / not touching.
  • the controller is e.g. of the household appliance, with which the transmitter is connected and which optionally as the transmitter can be arranged on the support plate or at another point in the household appliance. In some applications, the transmitter may also be integrated in this controller.
  • the "electrically conductive sensor element” essentially consists of the sensor section and the contact section. Preferably, these two sections are integrally formed; For example, the sensor element can be manufactured as a stamped and bent part. In addition, both sections are made of an electrically conductive material to ensure the function of the capacitive sensor element and its connection to the transmitter.
  • the contact portion of the sensor element may consist of a single portion or multiple sections, it may be rectilinear or one or more times curved or bent.
  • the change of such a curvature in the manufacturing process can, for example, achieve the above-mentioned variably adjustable angle between the sensor section and the carrier plate.
  • the contact section may be formed by a part of the sensor section.
  • the sensor portion of the sensor element is arranged "corresponding to the touch field" of the cover plate.
  • the touch pad may additionally be visually and / or haptically marked for the user on the cover plate in order to simplify the operation by the user.
  • the electrically conductive sensor portion of the sensor element is fundamentally arbitrary in its dimensions, shapes and designs and can be adapted to the particular application without restrictions.
  • full-surface sensor sections or sensor sections with recesses such as, for example, annular, U-shaped, or the like, are here.
  • Sensor sections conceivable.
  • the "electrically insulating" design of the cover plate is intended to mean that the cover plate is designed to be electrically insulating at least in the area of the touch panel, so that it can serve as a dielectric for the capacitive sensor element in this area.
  • Other areas of the cover plate may well be formed electrically conductive.
  • assembly is intended to mean a multi-component unit that can be preassembled in the manufacturing process of the touch and / or proximity switch. This preassembled unit can then be further processed or installed in the assembly process as a whole, for example.
  • the senor element is mounted on the carrier plate and forms with this a structural unit. This simplifies the assembly or assembly of the touch and / or proximity switch, especially in confined spaces.
  • the evaluation of the sensor circuit is mounted on the support plate and forms a structural unit with this.
  • the sensor portion of the sensor element is in the direction perpendicular to the cover plate, i. formed in the operating direction of the touch and / or proximity switch elastically deformable and / or arranged and / or fixed. In this way, component and assembly tolerances can be compensated and thereby the reliability and / or the sensitivity of the switch can be improved.
  • the sensor section of the sensor element contacts the side of the cover plate facing away from the user flatly.
  • the sensitivity of the touch and / or proximity switch can be increased.
  • the cover plate in the region of the touch panel is at least partially transparent, is arranged between the sensor portion of the sensor element and the user side facing away from the cover at least one light guide and is on the support plate at least one Light source arranged such that coupled from the at least one light source emitted light beams in the at least one light guide.
  • Translucent materials or apertures or holes in the cover slat are considered translucent.
  • the touch panel corresponding to the sensor section can be backlit or marked;
  • the user can be signaled a switching state of the capacitive touch and / or proximity switch.
  • the light-guiding element contacts the side of the cover plate facing away from the user and / or the side of the sensor section of the sensor element facing the cover plate in a planar manner.
  • the smallest possible distance between the cover plate and the light guide or between the light guide and the sensor portion and thus a total of between the cover and the sensor portion of the sensor element can be achieved, which may be advantageous in terms of the operability and the sensitivity of the switch because, for example, a uniform and small distance between the cover plate and the sensor element and thus a uniformly thick dielectric can be achieved.
  • the contact section of the sensor element rests on at least one side of the carrier plate and / or at least part of the contact section projects into a hole in the carrier plate.
  • the contact portion of the sensor element is connected to the carrier plate by means of plug contact, caulking, jamming, soldering or gluing.
  • the capacitive touch and / or proximity switch of the invention can be advantageously used in an operating device, in particular an operating device of an electrical or electronic household appliance such as a cooker, a hob, a microwave oven, a dishwasher, a washing machine, a tumble dryer and the like. Due to the (large) angled arrangement of the support plate relative to the cover plate, an insert for control panels in an end face of a door or a side wall of the household appliance is also possible in an advantageous manner, for example.
  • the operating device may also have a plurality of capacitive touch and / or proximity switches, each having a sensor element, wherein the sensor elements of this plurality of capacitive touch and / or proximity switches are mounted on a common carrier plate.
  • the plurality of touch and / or arrangement switches are preferably arranged substantially in a row in this case in order to simplify mounting on the carrier plate.
  • the above-mentioned object is achieved by a method for producing a capacitive touch and / or proximity switch having the features of claim 13.
  • an electrically insulating cover plate which is a touch panel for a user Are defined.
  • an electrically conductive sensor element is mounted on a support plate, wherein the sensor element has a sensor portion and a contact portion for fixing the sensor element on the support plate and an evaluation is electrically connected via the contact portion electrically connected to the sensor element, so that the support plate and the sensor element form a structural unit ,
  • the contact portion of the sensor element is also designed to align the sensor portion of the sensor element relative to the carrier plate at an angle of about 30 degrees to about 90 degrees.
  • the support plate is disposed on a side facing away from the user of the cover plate at an angle of about 30 degrees to about 90 degrees to the cover plate such that the sensor portion of the sensor element corresponds to the touch panel and is arranged substantially parallel to the cover plate and the contact portion of Sensor element is designed to align the sensor portion of the sensor element relative to the support plate at an angle of about 30 degrees to about 90 degrees.
  • This touch and / or proximity switch can be advantageously used, for example, in an operating device for an electrical or electronic household appliance.
  • this touch and / or proximity switch can be provided for example for a control panel which is to be positioned in a front side of a door of the household appliance.
  • the capacitive touch and / or proximity switch comprises, in particular, a capacitive sensor element arranged behind a cover plate 10.
  • This capacitive sensor element is mounted on a support plate 14, which may be, for example, a printed circuit board or a simple plastic sheet.
  • the capacitive sensor element consists essentially of a planar sensor section 12 made of an electrically conductive material, which is aligned substantially parallel to the cover plate 10, and a contact section 18 described below.
  • the sensor portion 12 may be formed over the entire surface, as in Fig. 1 shown, or have a closed or open ring shape with a free interior. While the sensor section 12 in Fig. 1 and 2 has a rectangular basic shape, basically any basic shapes (circular, elliptical, square, polygonal, sharp or rounded corners, straight or curved sides, etc.) are possible for the capacitive sensor element.
  • the thickness of the sensor section 12 of the sensor element can range from film thickness to an inherently stable plate thickness.
  • the dimensions and shape of the sensor portion 12 of the sensor element define a touch pad 11 on the cover plate 10 for the user.
  • the user To operate the touch and / or proximity switch, the user must access this touchpad 11 on the user facing side (left in FIG Fig. 1 and 2 ) of the cover plate 10 or approach this.
  • the touchpad 11 is preferably labeled for the user. This can be done for example by graphic or haptic elements on or in the cover plate 10.
  • the cover plate 10 is formed at least in the area of this touch panel 11 from an electrically insulating material (e.g., glass, ceramic, plastic). In this way, the cover plate 10 forms a dielectric between the sensor portion 12 of the sensor element and e.g. a finger of the user for the capacitive sensor.
  • an electrically insulating material e.g., glass, ceramic, plastic.
  • the sensor section 12 is connected via the electrically conductive contact section 18 to a transmitter 16, which detects an actuation or non-actuation of the touch and / or proximity switch based on the output signal of the sensor circuit.
  • the contact portion 18 is preferably an integral part of the sensor element and serves to attach the sensor element on a support plate 14.
  • the sensor element 12, 18 can be made for example in a stamping and bending technique as an integral component and forms after assembly on the support plate 14 is an integral unit.
  • the contact portion 18 of the sensor element is provided on one side of the sensor portion 12, in particular on the side facing the support plate 14 of the sensor portion 12.
  • the contact portion 18 of the sensor element is formed such that the sensor element can be secured to a support plate 14, that Sensor portion 12 of the sensor element is oriented at an angle to the support plate 14. In this embodiment, this angle is about 90 degrees, ie the sensor portion 12 of the sensor element is substantially perpendicular to the support plate 14. This is achieved in this embodiment by way of example by the kink / the transition between the sensor portion 12 and the contact portion 18 in the corresponding angle. This bend also creates a certain elasticity of the sensor element.
  • Fig. 2 shows a contact portion 18 which abuts both on one side of the support plate 14 and protrudes into a hole of the support plate 14, is guided in the case shown through the hole.
  • the aforementioned evaluation electronics 16 is likewise arranged on the carrier plate 14.
  • the transmitter 16 is usually connected to the controller (not shown) of the household appliance. This control can optionally also be arranged on the support plate 14 or attached to another suitable location in the household appliance. If the controller is provided on the carrier plate 14, the transmitter 16 may be integrated into this controller.
  • the support plate 14 is substantially perpendicular to the cover plate 10 aligned, ie not parallel to the Cover plate 10 is arranged. In this way, the arrangement of sensor element 12, 18 and support plate 14 can be arranged with evaluation electronics 16 behind a relatively small control panel surface of the cover plate 10. It only needs a sufficiently deep space behind the cover plate 10 are available.
  • the support plate 14 may optionally be attached to the cover plate 10 and / or to other elements of the control panel behind the cover plate 10 in the desired orientation.
  • Fig. 1 and 2 is the sensor portion 12 of the capacitive sensor element with the user facing away from the cover plate 10 (right in Fig. 1 and 2 ) (fully) in contact with each other. In this way, a uniform and small distance to the cover plate 10 is ensured, which is for the operability and - safety of the capacitive touch and / or proximity switch advantage.
  • a Such elasticity is effected here, for example, by the transition between the sensor section 12 and the contact section 18 of the sensor element.
  • the operating device of the household appliance contain a plurality of such capacitive touch and / or proximity switches, they can, if they are arranged substantially along a row, be provided on a single common carrier plate 14 as a structural unit. That The adjacent capacitive sensor elements are connected via their electrical contact portions 18 with one or more evaluation electronics 16 on a common support plate 14 behind the cover 10.
  • the touch and / or proximity switch of this embodiment is different from that in FIG Fig. 1 and 2 illustrated switch by the possibility of backlighting or marking the touchpad.
  • the sensor section 12 of the electrically conductive sensor element is arranged substantially parallel to the cover plate 10 at a distance behind it. Between the user facing away from the side of the cover plate 10 and the sensor portion 12, a light guide 20 is then set.
  • the light guide 20 is connected to the cover plate 10 and fixed thereto and on the other hand, the sensor portion 12 of the sensor element with the cover plate 10 facing away from the light guide element 20 is connected flat and secured thereto.
  • small distances may be provided between the components 10/20 and / or 20/12, e.g. be able to consider different thermal expansion coefficients of the materials.
  • the light-guiding element 20 can be designed / arranged / fixed elastically deformable. Examples of this are in the Fig. 5 to 10 described.
  • At least one light source 22 for example in the form of a light-emitting diode (LED), is additionally provided on the carrier plate 14. This at least one light source 22 is arranged and aligned so that the light rays emitted by it can be coupled into one side of the light-guiding element 20.
  • LED light-emitting diode
  • the light source 22 and the light-guiding element 20 can likewise form a structural unit with the carrier plate 14.
  • the light-guiding element 20 forms a structural unit with the cover plate 10.
  • the cover plate 10 is at least partially transparent in the region of the touch panel 11.
  • the cover plate 10 in the region of the touch panel eleventh at least one opening or a hole, behind which the light-guiding element 20 is arranged.
  • the light-guiding element 20 may be fitted in the opening or the hole such that the light-guiding element 20 coincides with the level of the contact surface of the touch panel 11.
  • the touchpad 11 of the switch can be backlit or marked or the switching states of the touch and / or proximity switch can be signaled.
  • the at least one light source 22 may, for example, be controlled in different operating modes (off, steady light, flashing light) or comprise a plurality of light sources in different colors. The activation of the at least one light source 22 preferably takes place via the evaluation electronics 16 of the sensor circuit arranged on the carrier plate 14.
  • the contact portion 18 of the sensor element extends straight from the sensor portion 12 and penetrates the through hole in the support plate 14.
  • the contact portion 18 could only protrude into the hole in the support plate 14.
  • a blind hole could be provided.
  • FIGS. 7 and 8 Now, an aspect of a third embodiment of a touch and / or proximity switch will be described in more detail. The remaining aspects correspond to those of the preceding embodiments. The same or corresponding components are identified by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment.
  • the electrically conductive sensor section 12 of the z-shaped sensor element in the direction perpendicular to the cover plate 10, ie in the main operating direction F (see. Fig. 2 ) of the switch, elastically deformable formed / arranged / fastened.
  • elastically deformable formed / arranged / fastened In this way, component tolerances, mounting tolerances and changes in position over the life of the switch can be compensated and a uniform uniform spacing or a constant contact between the sensor portion 12 of the sensor element and the cover plate 10 can be ensured.
  • Such elasticity is effected here, for example, by the transition between the sensor section 12 and the contact section 18 of the sensor element.
  • FIGS. 9 and 10 Now, an aspect of a fourth embodiment of a touch and / or proximity switch will be described in more detail. The remaining aspects correspond to those of the preceding embodiments. The same or corresponding components are identified by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment.
  • the sensor element is formed by a compression spring 24 whose first turn is the sensor section 12 of the sensor element.
  • the sensor section 12 could also be formed by a part of the first turn.
  • the contact portion 18 of the sensor element penetrates the through hole in the support plate 14.
  • the last turn of the compression spring 24 could rest on one side of the support plate, the compression spring would be bent relative to its longitudinal axis.
  • a further, not shown embodiment represents a sensor element which is formed of elastic plastic, wherein the sensor element is conductive or has a conductive coating or conductive sheath.

Description

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft einen kapazitiven Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalter nach dem Oberbegriff des Anspruches 1, eine Bedienvorrichtung mit einem solchen kapazitiven Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalter sowie ein Verfahren zu seiner Herstellung.The present invention relates to a capacitive touch and / or proximity switch according to the preamble of claim 1, an operating device with such a capacitive touch and / or proximity switch and a method for its preparation.

In vielen elektrischen bzw. elektronischen Geräten, insbesondere auch in Haushaltsgeräten wie Herden, Kochfeldern, Mikrowellenöfen, Spülmaschinen, Waschmaschinen, Wäschetrocknern und dergleichen, werden häufig berührungsempfindliche Tastschalter bzw. Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalter eingesetzt, die durch ein einfaches Berühren oder bloßes Annähern durch einen Benutzer zum Beispiel einen bestimmten Schaltvorgang auslösen und/oder eine Geräteeinstellung ändern.In many electrical or electronic devices, especially in household appliances such as stoves, hobs, microwave ovens, dishwashers, washing machines, dryers and the like, touch-sensitive push button or touch and / or proximity switches are often used by a simple touch or mere approach by For example, trigger a user to initiate a particular shift and / or change a device setting.

Im Fall eines kapazitiven Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters bildet ein kapazitives Sensorelement aus einem elektrisch leitfähigen Material zusammen mit zum Beispiel einem Finger des Benutzers über eine als Dielektrikum wirkende Abdeckplatte aus einem elektrisch isolierenden Material eine Kapazität, die entsprechend dem Betätigen des Schalters, d.h. dem Berühren oder Nicht-Berühren eines dem kapazitiven Sensorelement zugeordneten Berührungsfeldes der Abdeckplatte variabel ist. Die Veränderung des Kapazitätswertes des kapazitiven Sensorelementes wirkt sich entsprechend auf ein Ausgangssignal der Sensorschaltung aus, welches von einer Auswerteelektronik verarbeitet und ausgewertet werden kann, um ggf. eine Betätigung des kapazitiven Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters zu interpretieren.In the case of a capacitive touch and / or proximity switch, a capacitive sensor element made of an electrically conductive material together with, for example, a finger of the user via a acting as a dielectric cover plate of an electrically insulating material forms a capacity corresponding to the actuation of the Switch, ie the touch or non-contact of the capacitive sensor element associated touch pad of the cover plate is variable. The change in the capacitance value of the capacitive sensor element has a corresponding effect on an output signal of the sensor circuit, which can be processed by an evaluation and evaluated to possibly interpret an operation of the capacitive touch and / or proximity switch.

Bei herkömmlichen kapazitiven Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschaltern, wie sie zum Beispiel aus der DE 10 2005 053 792 A1 oder der WO 2006/034993 A1 bekannt sind, sind die Auswerteelektronik für die Sensorschaltung und auch das kapazitive Sensorelement auf einer Leiterplatte montiert, die im Wesentlichen parallel und in einem Abstand hinter der Abdeckplatte angeordnet ist. Dabei besteht das Sensorelement aus einem Sensorabschnitt bzw. einer Sensorfläche, der/die über einen elektrisch leitfähigen Körper in Form einer Druckfeder mit einem elektrisch leitenden Kontakt auf der Leiterplatte verbunden ist. Ein derartiger Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalter, der in Berührungsrichtung verschiebbar ist, ist auch aus der DE 10 2006 035 837 A1 bekannt.In conventional capacitive touch and / or proximity switches, as for example from the DE 10 2005 053 792 A1 or the WO 2006/034993 A1 are known, the transmitter for the sensor circuit and the capacitive sensor element are mounted on a printed circuit board, which is arranged substantially parallel and at a distance behind the cover plate. In this case, the sensor element consists of a sensor section or a sensor surface which is connected via an electrically conductive body in the form of a compression spring with an electrically conductive contact on the circuit board. Such a touch and / or proximity switch, which is displaceable in the contact direction is also known from DE 10 2006 035 837 A1 known.

Ein anderer Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalter ist aus der US 7,525,062 B2 bekannt. Dieser Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalter beschreibt ein an einer Bedienblende befestigtes Sensorelement aus leitfähigem Kunststoff, das dazu ausgestaltet ist, eine Leiterplatte zu haltern.Another touch and / or proximity switch is from the US 7,525,062 B2 known. This touch and / or proximity switch describes a sensor element made of conductive plastic fastened to a control panel and adapted to support a printed circuit board.

Aus der GB 2 459 888 A ist ein weiterer solcher Berührungsschalter bekannt, der ein Lichtleitelement aufweist, über das eingekoppeltes Licht zu einem Berührungsfeld geleitet wird, um dieses zu beleuchten.From the GB 2 459 888 A is another such touch switch is known which has a light guide, is passed via the coupled light to a touch panel to illuminate this.

Bei sehr kleinen Bedienblendenflächen, die zum Beispiel nur Platz für eine Reihe weniger Schaltelemente haben, existiert hinter der Abdeckplatte dann bei diesen vorgenannten Konstruktionen nicht genügend Raum für die Leiterplatte mit Auswerteelektronik. Solche Einbauverhältnisse existieren zum Beispiel bei Bedienblenden, die in der Stirnseite einer Tür eines Haushaltsgerätes vorgesehen sind.For very small control panels, for example, only have space for a number fewer switching elements, there is not enough space for the circuit board with evaluation behind the cover then in these aforementioned constructions. Such installation conditions exist for example in control panels, which are provided in the front of a door of a household appliance.

Für den Fall von Bedienvorrichtungen mit gekrümmten Abdeckplatten schlägt die EP 1 924 000 A2 die Verwendung flexibler Leiterplattenteile vor. Ein solcher flexibler Leiterplattenabschnitt kann mit mehreren Berührungsschaltern und Anzeigeelementen versehen und unmittelbar hinter der gekrümmten Abdeckplatte angeordnet werden. Dieser flexible Leiterplattenabschnitt ist ferner mit einer steifen Leiterplatte verbunden, die zum Beispiel mit einem Display und einer Auswerteelektronik bestückt und in irgendeiner Ausrichtung hinter der Abdeckplatte angeordnet sein kann.In the case of controls with curved cover plates suggests the EP 1 924 000 A2 the use of flexible printed circuit board parts. Such a flexible circuit board portion may be provided with a plurality of touch switches and display elements and disposed immediately behind the curved cover plate. This flexible circuit board portion is further connected to a rigid circuit board, which may be equipped, for example, with a display and an evaluation and arranged in any orientation behind the cover plate.

Es ist die Aufgabe der vorliegenden Erfindung, einen kapazitiven Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalter zu schaffen, der auch im Fall sehr kleiner Bedienblendenflächen eingesetzt werden kann.It is the object of the present invention to provide a capacitive touch and / or proximity switch, which can be used even in the case of very small control panels.

Diese Aufgabe wird gelöst durch einen kapazitiven Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalter mit den Merkmalen des Anspruches 1. Bevorzugte Ausführungsformen und Weiterentwicklungen sind Gegenstand der abhängigen Ansprüche 2 bis 10.This object is achieved by a capacitive touch and / or proximity switch having the features of claim 1. Preferred embodiments and further developments are the subject of the dependent claims 2 to 10.

Der kapazitive Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalter weist eine elektrisch isolierende Abdeckplatte, die ein Berührungsfeld für einen Benutzer definiert; eine auf einer dem Benutzer abgewandten Seite der Abdeckplatte angeordnete Trägerplatte; ein elektrisch leitfähiges Sensorelement; und eine Auswerteelektronik, welche elektrisch leitend mit dem Sensorelement verbunden ist, auf. Dabei weist das Sensorelement einen Sensorabschnitt, der auf der dem Benutzer abgewandten Seite der Abdeckplatte korrespondierend zu dem Berührungsfeld und im Wesentlichen parallel zu der Abdeckplatte angeordnet ist, sowie einen Kontaktabschnitt zum Befestigen des Sensorelementes an der Trägerplatte auf, wobei die Auswerteelektronik über den Kontaktabschnitt elektrisch leitend mit dem Sensorelement verbunden ist, wobei vorgesehen ist, dass das Sensorelement mit der Trägerplatte verbunden ist und die Trägerplatte in einem Winkel von etwa 30 Grad bis zu etwa 90 Grad zur Abdeckplatte angeordnet ist und der Kontaktabschnitt des Sensorelementes zur Ausrichtung des Sensorabschnittes des Sensorelementes gegenüber der Trägerplatte in einem Winkel von etwa 30 Grad bis zu etwa 90 Grad ausgebildet ist.The capacitive touch and / or proximity switch includes an electrically insulating cover plate defining a touch pad for a user; a carrier plate arranged on a side of the cover plate facing away from the user; an electrically conductive sensor element; and an evaluation, which is electrically conductive with connected to the sensor element, on. In this case, the sensor element has a sensor section, which is arranged on the side facing away from the user of the cover corresponding to the touch panel and substantially parallel to the cover plate, and a contact portion for attaching the sensor element to the support plate, wherein the transmitter via the contact portion electrically conductive is connected to the sensor element, wherein it is provided that the sensor element is connected to the carrier plate and the carrier plate is arranged at an angle of about 30 degrees to about 90 degrees to the cover plate and the contact portion of the sensor element for aligning the sensor portion of the sensor element relative to the Support plate is formed at an angle of about 30 degrees to about 90 degrees.

Bei dem erfindungsgemäßen Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalter ist die Trägerplatte in einem Winkel von über etwa 30 Grad zur Abdeckplatte, d.h. nicht parallel zu dieser angeordnet. Die (groß)winklige Anordnung der Trägerplatte relativ zur Abdeckplatte liegt in einem Bereich von etwa 30 Grad bis zu etwa 90 Grad, d.h. einer senkrechten Anordnung der Trägerplatte. Ein sinnvoller Einsatz des erfindungsgemäßen Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters ergibt sich insbesondere bei Winkeln ab etwa 45 Grad oder etwa 60 Grad. Durch diese nicht parallele Anordnung der Trägerplatte relativ zur Abdeckplatte benötigt die Trägerplatte in den Ausbreitungsrichtungen parallel zur Abdeckplatte weniger Bauraum. Auf diese Weise kann der Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalter auch bei Bedienvorrichtungen mit kleinen Bedienblendenflächen eingesetzt werden, da die Trägerplatte hinter diesen kleinen Bedienblendenflächen angeordnet werden kann. Dabei ist der Kontaktabschnitt des Sensorelementes zur Ausrichtung des Sensorabschnittes des Sensorelementes gegenüber der Trägerplatte in einem Winkel von über etwa 30 Grad ausgebildet.In the touch and / or proximity switch according to the invention, the support plate is at an angle of about about 30 degrees to the cover plate, that is not arranged parallel thereto. The (large) angled arrangement of the support plate relative to the cover plate is in a range of about 30 degrees to about 90 degrees, ie, a vertical arrangement of the support plate. A sensible use of the touch and / or proximity switch according to the invention results in particular at angles from about 45 degrees or about 60 degrees. By this non-parallel arrangement of the support plate relative to the cover plate, the support plate in the propagation directions parallel to the cover plate requires less space. In this way, the touch and / or proximity switch even with controls with small Operating panels can be used, since the carrier plate can be arranged behind these small control panels. In this case, the contact portion of the sensor element for aligning the sensor portion of the sensor element relative to the support plate is formed at an angle of about about 30 degrees.

Um diese (groß)winklige Anordnung der Trägerplatte gegenüber der Abdeckplatte realisieren zu können, ist der Kontaktabschnitt des Sensorelementes so ausgebildet, dass er eine Ausrichtung des Sensorabschnittes des Sensorelementes gegenüber der Trägerplatte ebenfalls in einem Winkel von über etwa 30 Grad ermöglicht. Dieser Winkel entspricht im Wesentlichen dem Winkel zwischen der Abdeckplatte und der Trägerplatte und es gelten die obigen Anmerkungen in entsprechender Weise.In order to be able to realize this (large) angled arrangement of the carrier plate relative to the cover plate, the contact portion of the sensor element is designed so that it also allows an orientation of the sensor portion of the sensor element relative to the carrier plate at an angle of about about 30 degrees. This angle essentially corresponds to the angle between the cover plate and the carrier plate and the above remarks apply correspondingly.

Im Gegensatz zu den herkömmlichen kapazitiven Tastschaltern, bei denen der Sensorabschnitt des kapazitiven Sensorelementes im Wesentlichen parallel zur Trägerplatte verläuft und sich das Kontaktelement des Sensorelementes (z.B. in Form einer Druckfeder) im Wesentlichen senkrecht zwischen dem Sensorabschnitt des Sensorelementes und der Trägerplatte erstreckt, ist der elektrisch leitfähige Kontaktabschnitt des Sensorelementes bei dem erfindungsgemäßen Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalter so ausgebildet, dass er eine (groß) winklige Anordnung des Sensorabschnittes des Sensorelementes gegenüber der Trägerplatte ermöglicht. Durch diese Konstruktion des Kontaktabschnittes des Sensorelementes entsteht ein Freiheitsgrad für die Anordnung der Trägerplatte in der oben beschriebenen, nicht parallelen Ausrichtung relativ zur Abdeckplatte.In contrast to the conventional capacitive pushbutton switches, in which the sensor section of the capacitive sensor element extends substantially parallel to the carrier plate and the contact element of the sensor element (eg in the form of a compression spring) extends substantially perpendicularly between the sensor section of the sensor element and the carrier plate, this is electrically conductive contact portion of the sensor element in the touch and / or proximity switch according to the invention designed so that it allows a (large) angular arrangement of the sensor portion of the sensor element relative to the carrier plate. This design of the contact portion of the sensor element creates a degree of freedom for the arrangement of the carrier plate in the non-parallel orientation described above relative to the cover plate.

Es ist denkbar, den durch den Kontaktabschnitt ermöglichten Winkel zwischen dem Sensorabschnitt des Sensorelementes und der Trägerplatte variabel einstellbar zu gestalten, sodass das gleiche Sensorelement für verschiedene Ausführungsformen des Schalters mit unterschiedlichen Winkeln zwischen Abdeckplatte und Trägerplatte eingesetzt werden kann.It is conceivable to make the angle made possible by the contact section between the sensor section of the sensor element and the carrier plate variably adjustable so that the same sensor element can be used for different embodiments of the switch with different angles between cover plate and carrier plate.

Im Rahmen der vorliegenden Erfindung kann die "Trägerplatte" zum Beispiel eine Leiterplatte oder eine Kunststoffplatte sein. Die Trägerplatte kann außerdem als ein stabiler Plattenkörper ausgebildet sein oder nur Folienstärke aufweisen.In the context of the present invention, the "carrier plate" may be, for example, a printed circuit board or a plastic plate. The carrier plate may also be formed as a stable plate body or have only film thickness.

In Zusammenhang mit der vorliegenden Erfindung dient die "Auswerteelektronik" dem Verarbeiten und Auswerten der von der Sensorschaltung erzeugten Ausgangssignale, um ein Betätigen des Schalters durch ein Berühren/Annähern bzw. Nicht-Berühren/Annähern festzustellen. Von dieser Auswerteelektronik zu unterscheiden ist die Steuerung z.B. des Haushaltsgerätes, mit welcher die Auswerteelektronik verbunden ist und welche wahlweise wie die Auswerteelektronik auf der Trägerplatte oder an einer anderen Stelle im Haushaltsgerät angeordnet sein kann. In einigen Anwendungen kann die Auswerteelektronik auch in diese Steuerung integriert sein.In the context of the present invention, the "transmitter" is for processing and evaluating the output signals generated by the sensor circuit to detect actuation of the switch by touching / approaching / not touching. To be distinguished from this transmitter, the controller is e.g. of the household appliance, with which the transmitter is connected and which optionally as the transmitter can be arranged on the support plate or at another point in the household appliance. In some applications, the transmitter may also be integrated in this controller.

Das "elektrisch leitfähige Sensorelement" besteht im Wesentlichen aus dem Sensorabschnitt und dem Kontaktabschnitt. Vorzugsweise sind diese beiden Abschnitte integral ausgebildet; zum Beispiel kann das Sensorelement als ein Stanzbiegeteil gefertigt werden. Außerdem sind beide Abschnitte aus einem elektrisch leitfähigen Material gefertigt, um die Funktion des kapazitiven Sensorelementes und seine Verbindung mit der Auswerteelektronik zu gewährleisten.The "electrically conductive sensor element" essentially consists of the sensor section and the contact section. Preferably, these two sections are integrally formed; For example, the sensor element can be manufactured as a stamped and bent part. In addition, both sections are made of an electrically conductive material to ensure the function of the capacitive sensor element and its connection to the transmitter.

Der Kontaktabschnitt des Sensorelementes kann aus einem einzigen Abschnitt oder mehreren Teilabschnitten bestehen, er kann geradlinig oder ein- oder mehrfach gekrümmt bzw. gebogen sein. Die Veränderung einer solchen Krümmung im Fertigungsprozess kann zum Beispiel den oben genannten variabel einstellbaren Winkel zwischen dem Sensorabschnitt und der Trägerplatte erreichen. In einer alternativen Ausführungsform kann der Kontaktabschnitt durch einen Teil des Sensorabschnitts gebildet sein.The contact portion of the sensor element may consist of a single portion or multiple sections, it may be rectilinear or one or more times curved or bent. The change of such a curvature in the manufacturing process can, for example, achieve the above-mentioned variably adjustable angle between the sensor section and the carrier plate. In an alternative embodiment, the contact section may be formed by a part of the sensor section.

Der Sensorabschnitt des Sensorelementes ist "korrespondierend zu dem Berührungsfeld" der Abdeckplatte angeordnet. Im Rahmen dieser Erfindung bedeutet dies, dass die Dimensionierung, die Form und die Platzierung des Sensorelementes hinter der Abdeckplatte die Dimensionierung, die Form bzw. die Position des Berührungsfeldes auf der Abdeckplatte bestimmen. Das Berührungsfeld kann für den Benutzer auf der Abdeckplatte zusätzlich optisch und/oder haptisch gekennzeichnet sein, um die Bedienung durch den Benutzer zu vereinfachen.The sensor portion of the sensor element is arranged "corresponding to the touch field" of the cover plate. In the context of this invention, this means that the dimensioning, the shape and the placement of the sensor element behind the cover plate determine the dimensioning, the shape or the position of the touch pad on the cover plate. The touch pad may additionally be visually and / or haptically marked for the user on the cover plate in order to simplify the operation by the user.

Der elektrisch leitfähige Sensorabschnitt des Sensorelementes ist in seinen Abmessungen, Formen und Gestaltungen grundsätzlich beliebig auszugestalten und kann an den jeweiligen Anwendungsfall ohne Beschränkungen angepasst werden. Es sind hier zum Beispiel vollflächige Sensorabschnitte oder Sensorabschnitte mit Aussparungen wie zum Beispiel ringförmige, U-förmige, o.ä. Sensorabschnitte denkbar.The electrically conductive sensor portion of the sensor element is fundamentally arbitrary in its dimensions, shapes and designs and can be adapted to the particular application without restrictions. For example, full-surface sensor sections or sensor sections with recesses, such as, for example, annular, U-shaped, or the like, are here. Sensor sections conceivable.

Die "elektrisch isolierende" Ausbildung der Abdeckplatte soll in Zusammenhang mit der vorliegenden Erfindung bedeuten, dass die Abdeckplatte zumindest im Bereich des Berührungsfeldes elektrisch isolierend ausgebildet ist, sodass sie in diesem Bereich als ein Dielektrikum für das kapazitive Sensorelement dienen kann. Andere Bereiche der Abdeckplatte können durchaus elektrisch leitfähig ausgebildet sein.In connection with the present invention, the "electrically insulating" design of the cover plate is intended to mean that the cover plate is designed to be electrically insulating at least in the area of the touch panel, so that it can serve as a dielectric for the capacitive sensor element in this area. Other areas of the cover plate may well be formed electrically conductive.

Der Begriff der "Baueinheit" soll eine im Fertigungsprozess des Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters vormontierbare Einheit aus mehreren Komponenten bezeichnet. Diese vormontierte Baueinheit kann dann im Montageprozess als Ganzes zum Beispiel weiter bearbeitet bzw. eingebaut werden.The term "assembly" is intended to mean a multi-component unit that can be preassembled in the manufacturing process of the touch and / or proximity switch. This preassembled unit can then be further processed or installed in the assembly process as a whole, for example.

In einer vorteilhaften Weiterbildung ist das Sensorelement auf der Trägerplatte montiert und bildet mit dieser eine Baueinheit. Dies vereinfacht den Zusammenbau bzw. die Montage des Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters insbesondere bei beengten Platzverhältnissen.In an advantageous development, the sensor element is mounted on the carrier plate and forms with this a structural unit. This simplifies the assembly or assembly of the touch and / or proximity switch, especially in confined spaces.

In einer bevorzugten Ausführungsform ist auch die Auswerteelektronik der Sensorschaltung auf der Trägerplatte montiert und bildet mit dieser eine Baueinheit.In a preferred embodiment, the evaluation of the sensor circuit is mounted on the support plate and forms a structural unit with this.

In einer Ausgestaltung der Erfindung ist der Sensorabschnitt des Sensorelementes in Richtung senkrecht zur Abdeckplatte, d.h. in der Betätigungsrichtung des Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters elastisch verformbar ausgebildet und/oder angeordnet und/oder befestigt. Auf diese Weise können Bauteil- und Montagetoleranzen ausgeglichen und dadurch die Funktionssicherheit und/oder die Sensitivität des Schalters verbessert werden.In one embodiment of the invention, the sensor portion of the sensor element is in the direction perpendicular to the cover plate, i. formed in the operating direction of the touch and / or proximity switch elastically deformable and / or arranged and / or fixed. In this way, component and assembly tolerances can be compensated and thereby the reliability and / or the sensitivity of the switch can be improved.

In einer weiteren Ausgestaltung der Erfindung kontaktiert der Sensorabschnitt des Sensorelementes die dem Benutzer abgewandte Seite der Abdeckplatte flächig. Hierdurch kann die Empfindlichkeit des Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters erhöht werden. Durch eine solche flächige Kontaktierung kann auch eine vordefinierte und gleichmäßige Dicke des Dielektrikums (gebildet durch die Abdeckplatte, keine Luftspalte) gewährleistet werden.In a further embodiment of the invention, the sensor section of the sensor element contacts the side of the cover plate facing away from the user flatly. As a result, the sensitivity of the touch and / or proximity switch can be increased. By such a surface contact also a predefined and uniform thickness of the dielectric (formed by the cover plate, no air gaps) can be ensured.

In einer anderen Ausgestaltung der Erfindung ist die Abdeckplatte im Bereich des Berührungsfeldes zumindest teilweise lichtdurchlässig ausgebildet, ist zwischen dem Sensorabschnitt des Sensorelementes und der dem Benutzer abgewandten Seite der Abdeckplatte wenigstens ein Lichtleitelement angeordnet und ist auf der Trägerplatte wenigstens eine Lichtquelle derart angeordnet, dass von der wenigstens einen Lichtquelle ausgesendete Lichtstrahlen in das wenigstens eine Lichtleitelement einkoppeln. Als lichtdurchlässig gelten transluzente Materialien oder auch Durchbrechungen oder Löcher in der Abdecklatte. Auf diese Weise kann das dem Sensorabschnitt entsprechende Berührungsfeld hinterleuchtet bzw. gekennzeichnet werden; außerdem kann dem Benutzer ein Schaltzustand des kapazitiven Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters signalisiert werden.In another embodiment of the invention, the cover plate in the region of the touch panel is at least partially transparent, is arranged between the sensor portion of the sensor element and the user side facing away from the cover at least one light guide and is on the support plate at least one Light source arranged such that coupled from the at least one light source emitted light beams in the at least one light guide. Translucent materials or apertures or holes in the cover slat are considered translucent. In this way, the touch panel corresponding to the sensor section can be backlit or marked; In addition, the user can be signaled a switching state of the capacitive touch and / or proximity switch.

Bei dieser Ausführungsform ist vorzugsweise vorgesehen, dass das Lichtleitelement die dem Benutzer abgewandte Seite der Abdeckplatte und/oder die der Abdeckplatte zugewandte Seite des Sensorabschnittes des Sensorelementes flächig kontaktiert. Auf diese Weise kann ein möglichst geringer Abstand zwischen der Abdeckplatte und dem Lichtleitelement bzw. zwischen dem Lichtleitelement und dem Sensorabschnitt und damit insgesamt zwischen der Abdeckplatte und dem Sensorabschnitt des Sensorelementes erzielt werden, was in Bezug auf die Funktionsfähigkeit und die Sensitivität des Schalters vorteilhaft sein kann, da zum Beispiel ein gleichmäßiger und geringer Abstand zwischen der Abdeckplatte und dem Sensorelement und damit ein gleichmäßig dickes Dielektrikum erzielt werden können.In this embodiment, it is preferably provided that the light-guiding element contacts the side of the cover plate facing away from the user and / or the side of the sensor section of the sensor element facing the cover plate in a planar manner. In this way, the smallest possible distance between the cover plate and the light guide or between the light guide and the sensor portion and thus a total of between the cover and the sensor portion of the sensor element can be achieved, which may be advantageous in terms of the operability and the sensitivity of the switch because, for example, a uniform and small distance between the cover plate and the sensor element and thus a uniformly thick dielectric can be achieved.

In einer weiteren Ausführungsform liegt der Kontaktabschnitt des Sensorelementes auf wenigstens einer Seite der Trägerplatte an und/oder ragt wenigstens ein Teil des Kontaktabschnitts in ein Loch in der Trägerplatte. Derartiges Zusammenwirken von Kontaktabschnitt und Trägerplatte ermöglicht eine vorteilhafte, robuste Verbindung.In a further embodiment, the contact section of the sensor element rests on at least one side of the carrier plate and / or at least part of the contact section projects into a hole in the carrier plate. Such interaction of contact portion and support plate allows a beneficial, robust connection.

Zweckmäßiger Weise ist der Kontaktabschnitt des Sensorelementes mit der Trägerplatte mittels Steckkontakt, Verstemmen, Verklemmen, Verlöten oder Kleben verbunden.Conveniently, the contact portion of the sensor element is connected to the carrier plate by means of plug contact, caulking, jamming, soldering or gluing.

Der kapazitive Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalter der Erfindung kann in vorteilhafter Weise in einer Bedienvorrichtung, insbesondere einer Bedienvorrichtung eines elektrischen bzw. elektronischen Haushaltsgerätes wie eines Herdes, eines Kochfeldes, eines Mikrowellenofens, einer Spülmaschine, einer Waschmaschine, eines Wäschetrockners und dergleichen eingesetzt werden. Durch die (groß)winklige Anordnung der Trägerplatte relativ zur Abdeckplatte ist dabei in vorteilhafter Weise zum Beispiel auch ein Einsatz für Bedienblenden in einer Stirnseite einer Tür oder einer Seitenwand des Haushaltsgerätes möglich.The capacitive touch and / or proximity switch of the invention can be advantageously used in an operating device, in particular an operating device of an electrical or electronic household appliance such as a cooker, a hob, a microwave oven, a dishwasher, a washing machine, a tumble dryer and the like. Due to the (large) angled arrangement of the support plate relative to the cover plate, an insert for control panels in an end face of a door or a side wall of the household appliance is also possible in an advantageous manner, for example.

Bei dieser Anwendung kann die Bedienvorrichtung auch mehrere kapazitive Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalter aufweisen, die jeweils ein Sensorelement aufweisen, wobei die Sensorelemente dieser mehreren kapazitiven Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalter auf einer gemeinsamen Trägerplatte montiert sind. Die mehreren Berührungs- und/oder Anordnungsschalter sind in diesem Fall bevorzugt im Wesentlichen in einer Reihe angeordnet, um die Montage auf der Trägerplatte zu vereinfachen.In this application, the operating device may also have a plurality of capacitive touch and / or proximity switches, each having a sensor element, wherein the sensor elements of this plurality of capacitive touch and / or proximity switches are mounted on a common carrier plate. The plurality of touch and / or arrangement switches are preferably arranged substantially in a row in this case in order to simplify mounting on the carrier plate.

Gemäß einem weiteren Aspekt der vorliegenden Erfindung wird die oben genannte Aufgabe durch ein Verfahren zur Herstellung eines kapazitiven Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters mit den Merkmalen des Anspruches 13 gelöst.According to a further aspect of the present invention, the above-mentioned object is achieved by a method for producing a capacitive touch and / or proximity switch having the features of claim 13.

Gemäß diesem Verfahren wird zunächst eine elektrisch isolierende Abdeckplatte bereitgestellt, die ein Berührungsfeld für einen Benutzer definiert. Dann wird ein elektrisch leitfähiges Sensorelement auf einer Trägerplatte montiert, wobei das Sensorelement einen Sensorabschnitt und einen Kontaktabschnitt zum Befestigen des Sensorelementes auf der Trägerplatte aufweist und eine Auswerteelektronik über den Kontaktabschnitt elektrisch leitend mit dem Sensorelement verbunden ist, sodass die Trägerplatte und das Sensorelement eine Baueinheit bilden. Dabei ist der Kontaktabschnitt des Sensorelementes außerdem zur Ausrichtung des Sensorabschnittes des Sensorelementes gegenüber der Trägerplatte in einem Winkel von etwa 30 Grad bis zu etwa 90 Grad ausgebildet. Schließlich wird die Trägerplatte auf einer dem Benutzer abgewandten Seite der Abdeckplatte in einem Winkel von etwa 30 Grad bis zu etwa 90 Grad zur Abdeckplatte derart angeordnet, dass der Sensorabschnitt des Sensorelementes dem Berührungsfeld korrespondiert und im Wesentlichen parallel zu der Abdeckplatte angeordnet ist und der Kontaktabschnitt des Sensorelementes zur Ausrichtung des Sensorabschnittes des Sensorelementes gegenüber der Trägerplatte in einem Winkel von etwa 30 Grad bis zu etwa 90 Grad ausgebildet ist.According to this method, first an electrically insulating cover plate is provided, which is a touch panel for a user Are defined. Then, an electrically conductive sensor element is mounted on a support plate, wherein the sensor element has a sensor portion and a contact portion for fixing the sensor element on the support plate and an evaluation is electrically connected via the contact portion electrically connected to the sensor element, so that the support plate and the sensor element form a structural unit , In this case, the contact portion of the sensor element is also designed to align the sensor portion of the sensor element relative to the carrier plate at an angle of about 30 degrees to about 90 degrees. Finally, the support plate is disposed on a side facing away from the user of the cover plate at an angle of about 30 degrees to about 90 degrees to the cover plate such that the sensor portion of the sensor element corresponds to the touch panel and is arranged substantially parallel to the cover plate and the contact portion of Sensor element is designed to align the sensor portion of the sensor element relative to the support plate at an angle of about 30 degrees to about 90 degrees.

Die Vorteile und bevorzugten Ausgestaltungen dieses Verfahrens entsprechen jenen, die oben in Zusammenhang mit dem erfindungsgemäßen Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalter beschrieben worden sind. Insbesondere kann mit diesem Verfahren ein erfindungsgemäßer Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalter wie oben beschrieben geschaffen werden.The advantages and preferred embodiments of this method correspond to those described above in connection with the contact and / or proximity switch according to the invention. In particular, with this method, an inventive touch and / or proximity switch can be created as described above.

Obige sowie weitere Merkmale, Vorteile und Anwendungsmöglichkeiten der Erfindung werden aus der nachfolgenden Beschreibung bevorzugter, nicht-einschränkender Beispiele unter Bezug auf die beiliegenden Zeichnungen besser verständlich. Darin zeigen:

Fig. 1
eine schematische Perspektivansicht eines kapazitiven Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters gemäß einem ersten Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung;
Fig. 2
eine schematische Seitenansicht des Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters von Fig. 1;
Fig. 3
eine schematische Perspektivansicht eines kapazitiven Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters gemäß einem zweiten Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung;
Fig. 4
eine schematische Seitenansicht des Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters von Fig. 3.
Fig. 5
eine schematische Perspektivansicht eines kapazitiven Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters gemäß einem dritten Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung;
Fig. 6
eine schematische Seitenansicht des Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters von Fig. 5;
Fig. 7
eine schematische Perspektivansicht eines kapazitiven Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters gemäß einem vierten Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung;
Fig. 8
eine schematische Seitenansicht des Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters von Fig. 7;
Fig. 9
eine schematische Perspektivansicht eines kapazitiven Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters gemäß einem fünften Ausführungsbeispiel der Erfindung; und
Fig. 10
eine schematische Seitenansicht des Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters von Fig. 9;
The above and other features, advantages and applications of the invention will become more apparent from the following description of preferred, non-limiting examples, with reference to the accompanying drawings. Show:
Fig. 1
a schematic perspective view of a capacitive touch and / or proximity switch according to a first embodiment of the invention;
Fig. 2
a schematic side view of the touch and / or proximity switch of Fig. 1 ;
Fig. 3
a schematic perspective view of a capacitive touch and / or proximity switch according to a second embodiment of the invention;
Fig. 4
a schematic side view of the touch and / or proximity switch of Fig. 3 ,
Fig. 5
a schematic perspective view of a capacitive touch and / or proximity switch according to a third embodiment of the invention;
Fig. 6
a schematic side view of the touch and / or proximity switch of Fig. 5 ;
Fig. 7
a schematic perspective view of a capacitive touch and / or proximity switch according to a fourth embodiment of the invention;
Fig. 8
a schematic side view of the touch and / or proximity switch of Fig. 7 ;
Fig. 9
a schematic perspective view of a capacitive touch and / or proximity switch according to a fifth embodiment of the invention; and
Fig. 10
a schematic side view of the touch and / or proximity switch of Fig. 9 ;

Bezug nehmend auf Fig. 1 und 2 wird nun ein erstes Ausführungsbeispiel eines kapazitiven Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters in mehr Einzelheiten erläutert. Dieser Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalter kann in vorteilhafter Weise zum Beispiel in einer Bedienvorrichtung für ein elektrisches bzw. elektronisches Haushaltsgerät verwendet werden. Insbesondere kann dieser Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalter zum Beispiel für eine Bedienblende bereitgestellt werden, die in einer Stirnseite einer Tür des Haushaltsgerätes positioniert werden soll.Referring to Fig. 1 and 2 Now, a first embodiment of a capacitive touch and / or proximity switch will be explained in more detail. This touch and / or proximity switch can be advantageously used, for example, in an operating device for an electrical or electronic household appliance. In particular, this touch and / or proximity switch can be provided for example for a control panel which is to be positioned in a front side of a door of the household appliance.

Der kapazitive Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalter umfasst insbesondere ein hinter einer Abdeckplatte 10 angeordnetes kapazitives Sensorelement. Dieses kapazitive Sensorelement ist auf einer Trägerplatte 14 montiert, welche zum Beispiel eine Leiterplatte oder eine einfache Kunststoffplatte sein kann.The capacitive touch and / or proximity switch comprises, in particular, a capacitive sensor element arranged behind a cover plate 10. This capacitive sensor element is mounted on a support plate 14, which may be, for example, a printed circuit board or a simple plastic sheet.

Das kapazitive Sensorelement besteht im Wesentlichen aus einem flächigen Sensorabschnitt 12 aus einem elektrisch leitfähigen Material, der im Wesentlichen parallel zur Abdeckplatte 10 ausgerichtet ist, und einem weiter unten beschriebenen Kontaktabschnitt 18.The capacitive sensor element consists essentially of a planar sensor section 12 made of an electrically conductive material, which is aligned substantially parallel to the cover plate 10, and a contact section 18 described below.

Der Sensorabschnitt 12 kann dabei vollflächig ausgebildet sein, wie in Fig. 1 dargestellt, oder eine geschlossene oder offene Ringform mit einem freien Innenraum aufweisen. Während der Sensorabschnitt 12 in Fig. 1 und 2 eine rechteckige Grundform besitzt, sind für das kapazitive Sensorelement grundsätzlich beliebige Grundformen (kreisförmig, elliptisch, quadratisch, mehreckig, scharfe oder abgerundete Ecken, gerade oder gekrümmte Seiten, etc.) möglich. Die Stärke des Sensorabschnittes 12 des Sensorelementes kann von Folienstärke bis zu einer eigenstabilen Plattenstärke reichen.The sensor portion 12 may be formed over the entire surface, as in Fig. 1 shown, or have a closed or open ring shape with a free interior. While the sensor section 12 in Fig. 1 and 2 has a rectangular basic shape, basically any basic shapes (circular, elliptical, square, polygonal, sharp or rounded corners, straight or curved sides, etc.) are possible for the capacitive sensor element. The thickness of the sensor section 12 of the sensor element can range from film thickness to an inherently stable plate thickness.

Die Abmessungen und die Form des Sensorabschnittes 12 des Sensorelementes definieren ein Berührungsfeld 11 auf der Abdeckplatte 10 für den Benutzer. Zum Betätigen des Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters muss der Benutzer dieses Berührungsfeld 11 auf der dem Benutzer zugewandten Seite (links in Fig. 1 und 2) der Abdeckplatte 10 berühren bzw. sich diesem annähern.The dimensions and shape of the sensor portion 12 of the sensor element define a touch pad 11 on the cover plate 10 for the user. To operate the touch and / or proximity switch, the user must access this touchpad 11 on the user facing side (left in FIG Fig. 1 and 2 ) of the cover plate 10 or approach this.

Das Berührungsfeld 11 ist für den Benutzer vorzugsweise gekennzeichnet. Dies kann zum Beispiel durch grafische oder haptische Elemente auf bzw. in der Abdeckplatte 10 erfolgen.The touchpad 11 is preferably labeled for the user. This can be done for example by graphic or haptic elements on or in the cover plate 10.

Die Abdeckplatte 10 ist zumindest in dem Bereich dieses Berührungsfeldes 11 aus einem elektrisch isolierenden Material (z.B. Glas, Keramik, Kunststoff) gebildet. Auf diese Weise bildet die Abdeckplatte 10 ein Dielektrikum zwischen dem Sensorabschnitt 12 des Sensorelementes und z.B. einem Finger des Benutzers für den kapazitiven Sensor.The cover plate 10 is formed at least in the area of this touch panel 11 from an electrically insulating material (e.g., glass, ceramic, plastic). In this way, the cover plate 10 forms a dielectric between the sensor portion 12 of the sensor element and e.g. a finger of the user for the capacitive sensor.

Die Funktionsweise eines solchen kapazitiven Sensors eines Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters ist dem Fachmann hinlänglich bekannt und nicht Gegenstand dieser Anmeldung. Es kann daher auf eine detaillierte Erläuterung verzichtet werden.The operation of such a capacitive sensor of a touch and / or proximity switch is well known to the skilled person and not the subject of this application. It is therefore possible to dispense with a detailed explanation.

Der Sensorabschnitt 12 ist über den elektrisch leitfähigen Kontaktabschnitt 18 mit einer Auswerteelektronik 16 verbunden, die ein Betätigen bzw. Nicht-Betätigen des Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters anhand des Ausgangssignals der Sensorschaltung erkennt. Der Kontaktabschnitt 18 ist vorzugsweise integraler Bestandteil des Sensorelementes und dient der Befestigung des Sensorelementes auf einer Trägerplatte 14. Das Sensorelement 12, 18 kann zum Beispiel in einer Stanzbiegetechnik als integrales Bauteil gefertigt werden und bildet nach der Montage auf der Trägerplatte 14 eine integrale Baueinheit.The sensor section 12 is connected via the electrically conductive contact section 18 to a transmitter 16, which detects an actuation or non-actuation of the touch and / or proximity switch based on the output signal of the sensor circuit. The contact portion 18 is preferably an integral part of the sensor element and serves to attach the sensor element on a support plate 14. The sensor element 12, 18 can be made for example in a stamping and bending technique as an integral component and forms after assembly on the support plate 14 is an integral unit.

In dem Ausführungsbeispiel von Fig. 1 und 2 ist der Kontaktabschnitt 18 des Sensorelementes an einer Seite des Sensorabschnittes 12 vorgesehen, insbesondere an der der Trägerplatte 14 zugewandten Seite des Sensorabschnittes 12. Außerdem ist der Kontaktabschnitt 18 des Sensorelementes derart ausgebildet, dass das Sensorelement so an einer Trägerplatte 14 befestigt werden kann, dass der Sensorabschnitt 12 des Sensorelementes in einem Winkel zur Trägerplatte 14 orientiert ist. In diesem Ausführungsbeispiel beträgt dieser Winkel etwa 90 Grad, d.h. der Sensorabschnitt 12 des Sensorelementes verläuft im Wesentlichen senkrecht zur Trägerplatte 14. Dies wird in diesem Ausführungsbeispiel beispielhaft durch den Knick / den Übergang zwischen dem Sensorabschnitt 12 und dem Kontaktabschnitt 18 im entsprechenden Winkel erreicht. Diese Biegung erzeugt auch eine gewisse Elastizität des Sensorelementes.In the embodiment of Fig. 1 and 2 the contact portion 18 of the sensor element is provided on one side of the sensor portion 12, in particular on the side facing the support plate 14 of the sensor portion 12. In addition, the contact portion 18 of the sensor element is formed such that the sensor element can be secured to a support plate 14, that Sensor portion 12 of the sensor element is oriented at an angle to the support plate 14. In this embodiment, this angle is about 90 degrees, ie the sensor portion 12 of the sensor element is substantially perpendicular to the support plate 14. This is achieved in this embodiment by way of example by the kink / the transition between the sensor portion 12 and the contact portion 18 in the corresponding angle. This bend also creates a certain elasticity of the sensor element.

Fig. 2 zeigt einen Kontaktabschnitt 18, der sowohl auf einer Seite der Trägerplatte 14 anliegt als auch in ein Loch der Trägerplatte 14 hineinragt, im gezeigten Fall durch das Loch hindurch geführt ist. Fig. 2 shows a contact portion 18 which abuts both on one side of the support plate 14 and protrudes into a hole of the support plate 14, is guided in the case shown through the hole.

Die oben genannte Auswerteelektronik 16 ist ebenfalls auf der Trägerplatte 14 angeordnet. Die Auswerteelektronik 16 ist üblicherweise mit der Steuerung (nicht dargestellt) des Haushaltsgerätes verbunden. Diese Steuerung kann wahlweise ebenfalls auf der Trägerplatte 14 angeordnet sein oder an einer anderen geeigneten Stelle im Haushaltsgerät angebracht sein. Falls die Steuerung auf der Trägerplatte 14 vorgesehen ist, kann die Auswerteelektronik 16 in diese Steuerung mit integriert sein.The aforementioned evaluation electronics 16 is likewise arranged on the carrier plate 14. The transmitter 16 is usually connected to the controller (not shown) of the household appliance. This control can optionally also be arranged on the support plate 14 or attached to another suitable location in the household appliance. If the controller is provided on the carrier plate 14, the transmitter 16 may be integrated into this controller.

Wie in Fig. 1 und 2 dargestellt, ist die Trägerplatte 14 im Wesentlichen senkrecht zur Abdeckplatte 10 ausgerichtet, d.h. nicht parallel zu der Abdeckplatte 10 angeordnet. Auf diese Weise kann die Anordnung aus Sensorelement 12, 18 und Trägerplatte 14 mit Auswerteelektronik 16 hinter einer relativ kleinen Bedienblendenfläche der Abdeckplatte 10 angeordnet werden. Es muss lediglich ein ausreichend tiefer Bauraum hinter der Abdeckplatte 10 zur Verfügung stehen.As in Fig. 1 and 2 shown, the support plate 14 is substantially perpendicular to the cover plate 10 aligned, ie not parallel to the Cover plate 10 is arranged. In this way, the arrangement of sensor element 12, 18 and support plate 14 can be arranged with evaluation electronics 16 behind a relatively small control panel surface of the cover plate 10. It only needs a sufficiently deep space behind the cover plate 10 are available.

Die Trägerplatte 14 kann wahlweise an der Abdeckplatte 10 und/oder an anderen Elementen der Bedienblende hinter der Abdeckplatte 10 in der gewünschten Ausrichtung befestigt werden.The support plate 14 may optionally be attached to the cover plate 10 and / or to other elements of the control panel behind the cover plate 10 in the desired orientation.

In dem Ausführungsbeispiel von Fig. 1 und 2 steht der Sensorabschnitt 12 des kapazitiven Sensorelementes mit der dem Benutzer abgewandten Seite der Abdeckplatte 10 (rechts in Fig. 1 und 2) (voll-)flächig in Kontakt. Auf diese Weise wird ein gleichmäßiger und geringer Abstand zur Abdeckplatte 10 gewährleistet, was für die Funktionsfähigkeit und - sicherheit des kapazitiven Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters von Vorteil ist.In the embodiment of Fig. 1 and 2 is the sensor portion 12 of the capacitive sensor element with the user facing away from the cover plate 10 (right in Fig. 1 and 2 ) (fully) in contact with each other. In this way, a uniform and small distance to the cover plate 10 is ensured, which is for the operability and - safety of the capacitive touch and / or proximity switch advantage.

Im Fall dieser flächigen Kontaktierung ist der Sensorabschnitt 12 vorzugsweise auch mit der Abdeckplatte 10 fest verbunden.In the case of this surface contacting the sensor section 12 is preferably also firmly connected to the cover plate 10.

Zur Verbesserung der Funktionsfähigkeit und -sicherheit des kapazitiven Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters kann der elektrisch leitfähige Sensorabschnitt 12 in Richtung senkrecht zur Abdeckplatte 10, d.h. in der Hauptbetätigungsrichtung F (vgl. Fig. 2) des Schalters, elastisch verformbar ausgebildet / angeordnet / befestigt sein. Auf diese Weise können Bauteiltoleranzen, Montagetoleranzen und Positionsveränderungen über die Lebensdauer des Schalters ausgeglichen werden und ein gleichbleibend gleichmäßiger Abstand bzw. eine gleichbleibende Kontaktierung zwischen dem Sensorabschnitt 12 des Sensorelementes und der Abdeckplatte 10 gewährleistet werden. Eine derartige Elastizität wird hier zum Beispiel durch den Übergang zwischen dem Sensorabschnitt 12 und dem Kontaktabschnitt 18 des Sensorelementes bewirkt.To improve the functionality and safety of the capacitive touch and / or proximity switch, the electrically conductive sensor section 12 in the direction perpendicular to the cover plate 10, ie in the main operating direction F (see. Fig. 2 ) of the switch, elastically deformable formed / arranged / fastened. In this way, component tolerances, mounting tolerances and changes in position over the life of the switch can be compensated and a uniform uniform spacing or a constant contact between the sensor portion 12 of the sensor element and the cover plate 10 can be ensured. A Such elasticity is effected here, for example, by the transition between the sensor section 12 and the contact section 18 of the sensor element.

Soll die Bedienvorrichtung des Haushaltsgerätes mehrere solcher kapazitiven Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalter enthalten, so können diese, falls sie im Wesentlichen entlang einer Reihe angeordnet sind, auf einer einzigen gemeinsamen Trägerplatte 14 als Baueinheit bereitgestellt werden. D.h. die nebeneinander angeordneten kapazitiven Sensorelemente sind über ihre elektrischen Kontaktabschnitte 18 mit einer oder mehreren Auswerteelektroniken 16 auf einer gemeinsamen Trägerplatte 14 hinter der Abdeckung 10 verbunden.If the operating device of the household appliance contain a plurality of such capacitive touch and / or proximity switches, they can, if they are arranged substantially along a row, be provided on a single common carrier plate 14 as a structural unit. That The adjacent capacitive sensor elements are connected via their electrical contact portions 18 with one or more evaluation electronics 16 on a common support plate 14 behind the cover 10.

Bezug nehmend auf Fig. 3 und 4 wird nun ein zweites Ausführungsbeispiel eines Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters näher beschrieben. Dabei sind gleiche bzw. entsprechende Komponenten mit den gleichen Bezugsziffern wie im ersten Ausführungsbeispiel gekennzeichnet.Referring to 3 and 4 Now, a second embodiment of a touch and / or proximity switch will be described in more detail. The same or corresponding components are identified by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment.

Der Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalter dieses Ausführungsbeispiels unterscheidet sich von dem in Fig. 1 und 2 dargestellten Schalter durch die Möglichkeit der Hinterleuchtung bzw. Kennzeichnung des Berührungsfeldes.The touch and / or proximity switch of this embodiment is different from that in FIG Fig. 1 and 2 illustrated switch by the possibility of backlighting or marking the touchpad.

Zu diesem Zweck ist der Sensorabschnitt 12 des elektrisch leitfähigen Sensorelementes im Wesentlichen parallel zu der Abdeckplatte 10 in einem Abstand hinter dieser angeordnet. Zwischen die dem Benutzer abgewandte Seite der Abdeckplatte 10 und den Sensorabschnitt 12 ist dann ein Lichtleitelement 20 gesetzt.For this purpose, the sensor section 12 of the electrically conductive sensor element is arranged substantially parallel to the cover plate 10 at a distance behind it. Between the user facing away from the side of the cover plate 10 and the sensor portion 12, a light guide 20 is then set.

Vorzugsweise ist einerseits das Lichtleitelement 20 mit der Abdeckplatte 10 flächig verbunden und an dieser befestigt und andererseits der Sensorabschnitt 12 des Sensorelementes mit der der Abdeckplatte 10 abgewandten Seite des Lichtleitelementes 20 flächig verbunden und an diesem befestigt. Alternativ können zwischen den Komponenten 10 / 20 und/oder 20 / 12 auch geringe Abstände vorgesehen sein, um z.B. unterschiedliche thermische Ausdehnungskoeffizienten der Materialien berücksichtigen zu können. In einer weiteren Alternative liegt eine Mischform der beiden vorgenannten Alternativen vor. Beispielsweise ist zwischen den Komponenten 10 / 20 ein geringer Abstand vorgesehen und der Sensorabschnitt 12 des Sensorelementes ist mit der der Abdeckplatte 10 abgewandten Seite des Lichtleitelementes 20 flächig verbunden und an diesem oder an der Trägerplatte 14 befestigtPreferably, on the one hand the light guide 20 is connected to the cover plate 10 and fixed thereto and on the other hand, the sensor portion 12 of the sensor element with the cover plate 10 facing away from the light guide element 20 is connected flat and secured thereto. Alternatively, small distances may be provided between the components 10/20 and / or 20/12, e.g. be able to consider different thermal expansion coefficients of the materials. In a further alternative, there is a mixed form of the two aforementioned alternatives. For example, a small distance is provided between the components 10/20 and the sensor section 12 of the sensor element is connected in a planar manner to the side of the light-guiding element 20 remote from the cover plate 10 and secured thereto or on the carrier plate 14

In einer Variante dieses Ausführungsbeispiels kann das Lichtleitelement 20 elastisch verformbar ausgebildet / angeordnet / befestigt sein. Beispiele hierzu sind in den Fig. 5 bis 10 beschrieben.In a variant of this embodiment, the light-guiding element 20 can be designed / arranged / fixed elastically deformable. Examples of this are in the Fig. 5 to 10 described.

Auf der Trägerplatte 14 ist zudem wenigstens eine Lichtquelle 22 zum Beispiel in Form einer Leuchtdiode (LED) vorgesehen. Diese wenigstens eine Lichtquelle 22 ist so angeordnet und ausgerichtet, das die von ihr ausgesendeten Lichtstrahlen in eine Seite des Lichtleitelementes 20 einkoppeln können.At least one light source 22, for example in the form of a light-emitting diode (LED), is additionally provided on the carrier plate 14. This at least one light source 22 is arranged and aligned so that the light rays emitted by it can be coupled into one side of the light-guiding element 20.

Die Lichtquelle 22 und das Lichtleitelement 20 können ebenfalls mit der Trägerplatte 14 eine Baueinheit bilden. Alternativ bildet das Lichtleitelement 20 mit der Abdeckplatte 10 eine Baueinheit.The light source 22 and the light-guiding element 20 can likewise form a structural unit with the carrier plate 14. Alternatively, the light-guiding element 20 forms a structural unit with the cover plate 10.

Außerdem ist die Abdeckplatte 10 im Bereich des Berührungsfeldes 11 zumindest teilweise lichtdurchlässig ausgebildet. In einer alternativen Variante weist die Abdeckplatte 10 im Bereich des Berührungsfeldes 11 wenigstens eine Durchbrechung oder ein Loch auf, hinter dem das Lichtleitelement 20 angeordnet ist. Das Lichtleitelement 20 kann so in die Durchbrechung oder das Loch eingepasst sein, dass Lichtleitelement 20 mit dem Niveau der Berührfläche des Berührungsfeldes 11 zusammenfällt. Auf diese Weise kann das Berührungsfeld 11 des Schalters hinterleuchtet oder gekennzeichnet werden oder es können die Schaltzustände des Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters signalisiert werden. Die wenigstens eine Lichtquelle 22 kann zum Beispiel in unterschiedlichen Betriebsmodi (aus, Dauerlicht, Blinklicht) angesteuert werden oder mehrere Lichtquellen in unterschiedlichen Farben umfassen. Die Ansteuerung der wenigstens einen Lichtquelle 22 erfolgt vorzugsweise über die auf der Trägerplatte 14 angeordnete Auswerteelektronik 16 der Sensorschaltung.In addition, the cover plate 10 is at least partially transparent in the region of the touch panel 11. In an alternative variant, the cover plate 10 in the region of the touch panel eleventh at least one opening or a hole, behind which the light-guiding element 20 is arranged. The light-guiding element 20 may be fitted in the opening or the hole such that the light-guiding element 20 coincides with the level of the contact surface of the touch panel 11. In this way, the touchpad 11 of the switch can be backlit or marked or the switching states of the touch and / or proximity switch can be signaled. The at least one light source 22 may, for example, be controlled in different operating modes (off, steady light, flashing light) or comprise a plurality of light sources in different colors. The activation of the at least one light source 22 preferably takes place via the evaluation electronics 16 of the sensor circuit arranged on the carrier plate 14.

Die weiteren Komponenten, Merkmale, Vorteile und Varianten entsprechen jenen des obigen Ausführungsführungsbeispiels von Fig. 1 und 2.The other components, features, advantages and variants correspond to those of the above embodiment of Fig. 1 and 2 ,

Bezug nehmend auf Fig. 5 und 6 wird nun ein Aspekt eines dritten Ausführungsbeispiels eines Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters näher beschrieben. Die übrigen Aspekte entsprechen denen der vorhergehenden Ausführungsbeispiele. Dabei sind gleiche bzw. entsprechende Komponenten mit den gleichen Bezugsziffern wie im ersten Ausführungsbeispiel gekennzeichnet.Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6 Now, an aspect of a third embodiment of a touch and / or proximity switch will be described in more detail. The remaining aspects correspond to those of the preceding embodiments. The same or corresponding components are identified by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment.

In diesem Ausführungsbeispiel geht der Kontaktabschnitt 18 des Sensorelementes geradlinig aus dem Sensorabschnitt 12 hervor und durchdringt das durchgängige Loch in der Trägerplatte 14. Alternativ könnte der Kontaktabschnitt 18 in das Loch in der Trägerplatte 14 nur hineinragen. Anstelle eines durchgängigen Lochs könnte ein Sackloch vorgesehen sein.In this embodiment, the contact portion 18 of the sensor element extends straight from the sensor portion 12 and penetrates the through hole in the support plate 14. Alternatively, the contact portion 18 could only protrude into the hole in the support plate 14. Instead of a continuous hole, a blind hole could be provided.

Bezug nehmend auf Fig. 7 und 8 wird nun ein Aspekt eines dritten Ausführungsbeispiels eines Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters näher beschrieben. Die übrigen Aspekte entsprechen denen der vorhergehenden Ausführungsbeispiele. Dabei sind gleiche bzw. entsprechende Komponenten mit den gleichen Bezugsziffern wie im ersten Ausführungsbeispiel gekennzeichnet.Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8 Now, an aspect of a third embodiment of a touch and / or proximity switch will be described in more detail. The remaining aspects correspond to those of the preceding embodiments. The same or corresponding components are identified by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment.

Zur Verbesserung der Funktionsfähigkeit und -sicherheit des kapazitiven Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters kann der elektrisch leitfähige Sensorabschnitt 12 des z-förmigen Sensorelements in Richtung senkrecht zur Abdeckplatte 10, d.h. in der Hauptbetätigungsrichtung F (vgl. Fig. 2) des Schalters, elastisch verformbar ausgebildet / angeordnet / befestigt sein. Auf diese Weise können Bauteiltoleranzen, Montagetoleranzen und Positionsveränderungen über die Lebensdauer des Schalters ausgeglichen werden und ein gleichbleibend gleichmäßiger Abstand bzw. eine gleichbleibende Kontaktierung zwischen dem Sensorabschnitt 12 des Sensorelementes und der Abdeckplatte 10 gewährleistet werden. Eine derartige Elastizität wird hier zum Beispiel durch den Übergang zwischen dem Sensorabschnitt 12 und dem Kontaktabschnitt 18 des Sensorelementes bewirkt.To improve the functionality and safety of the capacitive touch and / or proximity switch, the electrically conductive sensor section 12 of the z-shaped sensor element in the direction perpendicular to the cover plate 10, ie in the main operating direction F (see. Fig. 2 ) of the switch, elastically deformable formed / arranged / fastened. In this way, component tolerances, mounting tolerances and changes in position over the life of the switch can be compensated and a uniform uniform spacing or a constant contact between the sensor portion 12 of the sensor element and the cover plate 10 can be ensured. Such elasticity is effected here, for example, by the transition between the sensor section 12 and the contact section 18 of the sensor element.

Bezug nehmend auf Fig. 9 und 10 wird nun ein Aspekt eines vierten Ausführungsbeispiels eines Berührungs- und/oder Annäherungsschalters näher beschrieben. Die übrigen Aspekte entsprechen denen der vorhergehenden Ausführungsbeispiele. Dabei sind gleiche bzw. entsprechende Komponenten mit den gleichen Bezugsziffern wie im ersten Ausführungsbeispiel gekennzeichnet.Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10 Now, an aspect of a fourth embodiment of a touch and / or proximity switch will be described in more detail. The remaining aspects correspond to those of the preceding embodiments. The same or corresponding components are identified by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment.

Das Sensorelement ist durch eine Druckfeder 24 gebildet, deren erste Windung der Sensorabschnitt 12 des Sensorelements ist. Alternativ könnte der Sensorabschnitt 12 auch durch einen Teil der ersten Windung gebildet sein. Der Kontaktabschnitt 18 des Sensorelements durchdringt das durchgängige Loch in der Trägerplatte 14. In einer alternativen Ausführungsform könnte die letzte Windung der Druckfeder 24 auf einer Seite der Trägerplatte anliegen, die Druckfeder wäre gegenüber ihrer Längsachse verbogen.The sensor element is formed by a compression spring 24 whose first turn is the sensor section 12 of the sensor element. alternative the sensor section 12 could also be formed by a part of the first turn. The contact portion 18 of the sensor element penetrates the through hole in the support plate 14. In an alternative embodiment, the last turn of the compression spring 24 could rest on one side of the support plate, the compression spring would be bent relative to its longitudinal axis.

Eine weiteres, nicht gezeigtes Ausführungsbeispiel stellt ein Sensorelement dar, das aus elastischem Kunststoff gebildet ist, wobei das Sensorelement leitfähig ist oder eine leitfähige Beschichtung bzw. leitfähige Ummantelung aufweist.A further, not shown embodiment represents a sensor element which is formed of elastic plastic, wherein the sensor element is conductive or has a conductive coating or conductive sheath.

Claims (13)

  1. Capacitive touch and/or proximity switch having an electrically insulating covering plate (10) which defines a touch panel (11) for a user, a carrier plate (14) arranged on a side of the covering plate (10) facing away from the user, an electrically conductive sensor element (12, 18) and evaluation electronics (16) which are connected to the sensor element (12, 18) in an electrically conductive manner,
    the sensor element (12, 18) having a sensor section (12), which is arranged on that side of the covering plate (10) which faces away from the user in a manner corresponding to the touch panel (11) and substantially parallel to the covering plate (10), and a contact section (18) for fastening the sensor element to the carrier plate (14),
    the evaluation electronics (16) being connected to the sensor element (12, 18) in an electrically conductive manner via the contact section (18),
    the sensor element (12, 18) being connected to the carrier plate (14), and
    the carrier plate (14) being arranged at an angle of approximately 30 degrees to approximately 90 degrees with respect to the covering plate (10), and the contact section (18) of the sensor element (12, 18) being designed to orient the sensor section (12) of the sensor element (12, 18) with respect to the carrier plate (14) at an angle of approximately 30 degrees to approximately 90 degrees.
  2. Touch and/or proximity switch according to Claim 1,
    characterized in that
    the carrier plate (14) is arranged substantially perpendicular.to the covering plate (10).
  3. Touch and/or proximity switch according to Claim 1 or 2,
    characterized in that
    the sensor element (12, 18) is mounted on the carrier plate (14) and forms a structural unit with the latter.
  4. Touch and/or proximity switch according to one of the preceding claims,
    characterized in that
    the evaluation electronics (16) are mounted on the carrier plate (14) and form a structural unit with the latter.
  5. Touch and/or proximity switch according to one of the preceding claims,
    characterized in that
    the sensor section (12) of the sensor element (12, 18) is designed and/or arranged and/or fastened in an elastically deformable manner in a direction perpendicular to the covering plate (10).
  6. Touch and/or proximity switch according to one of the preceding claims,
    characterized in that
    the sensor section (12) of the sensor element (12, 18) makes areal contact with that side of the covering plate (10) which faces away from the user.
  7. Touch and/or proximity switch according to one of Claims 1 to 6,
    characterized in that
    the covering plate (10) is at least partially translucent in the region of the touch panel (11); in that at least one light guiding element (20) is arranged between the sensor section (12) of the sensor element (12, 18) and that side of the covering plate (10) which faces away from the user; and
    in that at least one light source (22) is arranged on the carrier plate (14) in such a manner that light beams emitted by the at least one light source (22) are coupled into the at least one light guiding element (20).
  8. Touch and/or proximity switch according to Claim 7.
    characterized in that
    the light guiding element (20) makes areal contact with that side of the covering plate (10) which faces away from the user and/or that side of the sensor section (12) of the sensor element (12, 18) which faces the covering plate (10).
  9. Touch and/or proximity switch according to one of Claims 1 to 8,
    characterized in that
    the contact section (18) of the sensor element (12, 18) rests on at least one side of the carrier plate (14) and/or the contact section (18) projects into a hole in the carrier plate (14).
  10. Touch and/or proximity switch according to one of Claims 1 to 9,
    characterized in that
    the contact section (18) of the sensor element (12, 18) is connected to the carrier plate (14) by means of a plug-in contact, caulking, clamping, soldering or adhesive bonding.
  11. Operating device, in particular for an electronic household appliance, having at least one capacitive touch and/or proximity switch according to one of Claims 1 to 10.
  12. Operating device according to Claim 11,
    characterized in that
    the operating device has a plurality of capacitive touch and/or proximity switches each having a sensor element (12, 18), the sensor elements (12, 18) of the plurality of capacitive touch and/or proximity switches being mounted on a common carrier plate (14).
  13. Method for producing a capacitive touch and/or proximity switch, having the steps of:
    providing an electrically insulating covering plate (10) which defines a touch panel (11) for a user,
    mounting an electrically conductive sensor element (12, 18) on a carrier plate (14), the sensor element (12, 18) having a sensor section (12) and a contact section (18) for fastening the sensor element to the carrier plate (14), and evaluation electronics (16) being connected to the sensor element (12, 18) in an electrically conductive manner via the contact section (18), with the result that the carrier plate (14) and the sensor element (12, 18) form a structural unit,
    arranging the carrier plate (14) on a side of the covering plate (10) facing away from the user at an angle of approximately 30 degrees to approximately 90 degrees with respect to the covering plate (10) in such a manner that the sensor section (12) of the sensor element (12, 18) corresponds to the touch panel (11) and is arranged substantially parallel to the covering plate (10), and the contact section (18) of the sensor element (12, 18) is designed to orient the sensor section (12) of the sensor element (12, 18) with respect to the carrier plate (14) at an angle of approximately 30 degrees to approximately 90 degrees.
EP11000470.2A 2010-01-26 2011-01-21 Capacitive contact and/or proximity switch Active EP2348638B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE201010005663 DE102010005663B4 (en) 2010-01-26 2010-01-26 Capacitive touch and / or proximity switch

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2348638A2 EP2348638A2 (en) 2011-07-27
EP2348638A3 EP2348638A3 (en) 2012-09-26
EP2348638B1 true EP2348638B1 (en) 2016-04-20

Family

ID=43827092

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP11000470.2A Active EP2348638B1 (en) 2010-01-26 2011-01-21 Capacitive contact and/or proximity switch

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EP (1) EP2348638B1 (en)
DE (1) DE102010005663B4 (en)

Families Citing this family (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE102012001073A1 (en) * 2012-01-20 2013-07-25 Oechsler Aktiengesellschaft Capacitive proximity switch
DE102012214218A1 (en) * 2012-08-09 2014-02-13 E.G.O. Elektro-Gerätebau GmbH Housing part for an operating device, operating device and electrical appliance
CN107835010A (en) * 2017-12-13 2018-03-23 东莞微感电子技术有限公司 A kind of contactor control device based on elastic contact blade
CH714697B1 (en) * 2019-06-12 2022-07-29 V Zug Ag Control element for a device.

Family Cites Families (10)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JPS58182336U (en) * 1982-05-31 1983-12-05 オムロン株式会社 Capacitive proximity switch
FR2742575B1 (en) * 1995-12-19 1998-01-09 Europ Equip Menager SENSITIVE TOUCH DEVICE
DE10250395A1 (en) * 2002-10-29 2004-05-13 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Capacitive proximity and / or touch sensor and electrically conductive plastic body for such a sensor
DE102005008758A1 (en) 2004-09-29 2006-04-13 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Capacitive proximity and / or touch switch
DE102005053792B4 (en) 2005-11-09 2009-02-19 Diehl Ako Stiftung & Co. Kg Capacitive touch switch
DE102006035837A1 (en) * 2006-08-01 2008-02-07 Siemens Ag operating element
DE102006039133A1 (en) * 2006-08-21 2008-03-06 BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH Operating device for a household appliance with at least one capacitive sensor button
ITTO20060818A1 (en) 2006-11-16 2008-05-17 Indesit Co Spa APPLIANCES WITH CONTACT USER DEVICES OF CONTACT TYPE
JP4302728B2 (en) * 2006-12-06 2009-07-29 小島プレス工業株式会社 Touch switch for vehicle accessories
GB2459888B (en) * 2008-05-09 2011-06-08 Design Led Products Ltd Capacitive sensing apparatus

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP2348638A2 (en) 2011-07-27
EP2348638A3 (en) 2012-09-26
DE102010005663A1 (en) 2011-07-28
DE102010005663B4 (en) 2011-12-29

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